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Unlocking EV Tax Credits Before Expiry: Your Strategic Guide

Attention EV Enthusiasts: Are you considering purchasing a new or used electric vehicle or expanding your business fleet? Time is ticking! The advantageous federal tax credits will disappear after September 30, 2025. Here’s what this means for you and actionable steps to ensure you maximize this opportunity.

Why This Matters and What's at Stake

Originally intended to last through 2032, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has curtailed the EV tax credits timeline. These credits, now set to expire on September 30, 2025, provide no transition period or grandfather clauses for transactions after this date.

These changes entail:

  • New EV credit: Up to $7,500

  • Used EV credit: Up to $4,000

  • Commercial EV credit: Ranges from $7,500 to $40,000, depending on vehicle weight

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Key Milestones and "Acquired" Defined

To benefit from these credits, you must take possession of the vehicle by September 30, 2025. Remember, this means actually having the vehicle, not just a signed purchase agreement or a later delivery schedule.

The Leasing Aspect: When leasing, the clean vehicle tax credit is received by the manufacturer or dealer, often passed on as lower lease or monthly payments. Historically termed the “leasing loophole,” this option enabled more vehicles to qualify for full $7,500 credits. However, this loophole closes after September 30. After this deadline, later leases or deliveries won’t qualify under this provision.

Steps for Dealers and Consumers

  • Prioritize your purchase: For those planning a purchase, verify availability or delivery well ahead of the deadline.

  • Credit transfer selections: Opt to transfer the credit to the dealer at purchase for an immediate price discount, or claim it later using IRS Form 8936.

  • Eligibility criteria:

    ○ New EVs: Meet sourcing, assembly, price, and income criteria (e.g., $55K cap for cars, $80K for SUVs/trucks).

    ○ Used EVs: At least two years old, priced ≤ $25K; credit less than $4K or 30% of sales price.

    ○ Commercial EVs: Business-oriented usage, up to $40K based on weight, without income thresholds.

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Long-term Implications on the EV Market and Smart Timing

Market analysts predict an uptick in EV purchases as the deadline nears, possibly followed by a dip in sales spanning the fall. Projections indicate a potential 6% drop in EV market share by 2030, yet the government aims to accrue $169 billion in savings over a decade. (Reuters)

Thanks to limited time, those prepared can capitalize on significant savings. Be strategic!

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Summary Overview

Credit Type Amount Eligibility Deadline
New EV (individual) Up to $7,500 Meets sourcing, assembly, price, income rules Must acquire by Sep 30, 2025
Used EV Up to $4,000 (or 30%) Vehicle ≥2 years old, ≤ $25K Same as above
Commercial EV Up to $40,000 Business use, weight-based Same as above
Leasing loophole Up to $7,500 Ends after Sep 30 Included above

Conclusion: Seize the Moment

If an electric vehicle purchase is on your agenda, take decisive action now—finalize orders, verify delivery schedules, and review credit qualifications. A quick consultation with a tax advisor can ensure all aligns perfectly. These credits are fleeting, and efficiency is key.

Schedule a Free Consultation
Let's set you up for financial success!
Here
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